Colombo, Sri Lanka – June 16, 2025 – Former UNP Deputy Minister and MP Ravi Karunanayake says that both government and private sector institutions are grappling with rising operational expenses, highlighting a widespread economic strain across industries.
Addressing the media, the MP cited the Pelawatte Sugar Factory as a key example, noting that the production cost of a kilogram of sugar at the state-owned facility has increased by Rs. 50.
“There is no difference between government and private – all businesses have increased their expenses,” Karunanayake emphasized.
He stressed that this is not an isolated issue affecting only government entities like the Pelawatte Sugar Factory, but a shared challenge across the private sector as well.
Despite the rise in production costs, Karunanayake pointed out that many institutions have been unable to increase their income, placing further pressure on their sustainability.
The MP also urged the government to address the ongoing crisis in sugar imports, and proposed that an income tax be imposed to protect local products, in line with existing national policy frameworks.
His remarks come at a time when Sri Lanka’s local industries continue to face supply chain disruptions, cost escalations, and import challenges, especially in key sectors like food production and manufacturing.
